The New York Red Bulls on Tuesday signed midfielder Dax McCarty to a contact extension.

McCarty, a 25-year-old native of Winter Park, Fla., started 33 games last season, scoring three goals and adding three assists.

“He is a very important player for this club,” Red Bulls sporting director Andy Roxburgh said in a statement. “As a talented American player, Dax is part of the heart and soul of this team and we are looking forward to once again having him contribute to the Red Bulls and our campaign.”

McCarty has nine goals and 26 assists in seven MLS seasons with FC Dallas, D.C. United and New York.

He has made five appearances for the U.S. national team, and he also represented the U.S. on the junior level and was a member of the 2008 Olympic team.